“Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert…and the tempter came to Him.” Matt. 4:1,3

We read about Jesus’ experience in the desert (or wilderness) in Matt. 4:1-11, but is a desolate location the key? No. Satan could have tempted Jesus anywhere. Certainly, though, isolation matters, for Satan quickly capitalizes on Jesus being alone.

Have you ever felt alone even when surrounded by family? Ever felt abandoned by God in a tough time? Perhaps even questioned your standing with Him? You may not have been in a literal desert, but it probably felt like it: dry, parched, alone, no clear path of escape. It must have for Jesus, too. What can we learn from His experience?

Realize that God Himself may well lead us into that lonely place. But it isn’t because we’re not His. After all, “the Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness” (v.1). Being certain of our relationship to God is a critical foundation and mighty defense when we feel abandoned and isolated because….

We can expect temptation in that lonely, desert-like spot. Jesus Himself was led there “to be tempted by the Devil” (v.1), so we shouldn’t be surprised when it happens to us. But if we’re not sure of our identity in God, Satan’s attacks can push us further from Him. 

Notice Satan’s attempt to have Jesus question Who He is: “If You are the Son of God” (vs.3,6). Satan’s still at it. How often have we heard him speak into our subconscious: If you were spiritual enough, you wouldn’t be here in this wilderness. If God really loved you, He wouldn’t have abandoned you. Satan is determined to hurt and challenge us in the desert. “Jesus Himself suffered when He was tempted” (Heb. 2:18). Will we let our suffering feed the Satan-sown doubts and push us further from God? 

Jesus shows the way of counter-attack. Jesus doesn’t even dignify Satan’s “if” attack with a defense. Jesus knows Who He is; so do you. Scripture tells you God’s favor doesn’t depend on “how spiritual” you are. It also assures you of God’s love. Be confident enough of that relationship (even when you don’t feel worthy) to lead a counter-attack, to even command Satan to stop testing you. 

Of course after a forty-day fast, Jesus is hungry; turning that stone into bread is a real temptation. But as God’s Son, He can tell Satan He lives on much more than bread (v.4). You can speak Scripture with the same authority during trying times, too, since you’re God’s child. He’s your firm foundation. You’re “seated with Him in heavenly places.” That’s your identity. Tell all that to your tempter.

When Satan tells Jesus, “all this I will give You,” Jesus resists because He knows Who He is. Kingdoms, power, and acclaim are already His from the only One Who really matters. And His wilderness experience confirmed it for Him. What did your “wilderness” experience reveal to you?